Liguria Italy - Essential Facts You'd Like to Know Liguria Italy Liguria Italy is that magical narrow strip of coastline stretching from the French border all the way to the top of Tuscany. The area has been attracting travellers for centuries with its resorts and beautiful beaches, favoured by its balmy weather and turquoise waters. There are picturesque little fishing villages, small resort towns and historic port towns to admire and explore as well as the charming hillsides fragrant with the scent of lemon, olive and pine trees. Liguria boasts some 340km of coastline which is known as the Italian Riviera and is characterised by both continuous line of long beaches as well as high cliffs and spectacular coves. Genova is the capital of Liguria and is one of Italy’s most historic places. The city has a glorious past as one of history’s great maritime powers (Christopher Columbus was born here too), and an ancient center of commerce. It is Genova that marks the Ligurian coastline into two distinct parts: Riviera di Ponente (Shore of the Setting Sun) lies on the west between the French border and Genova. This stretch is more resort-oriented and is marked with succession of long sandy beaches.

It starts from France with the so-called Riviera dei Fiori (Riviera of Flowers) taking its name from the extensive flower cultivation in this area. One of the best loved spots here is the town of Sanremo, famed as the Italy’s flower capital as well as for its music festival Festival della Canzone. The Riviera di Ponente has many important historical centers to explore from the town of Albenga to Noli and Alassio on the Riviera delle Palme ( Riviera of Palms). On this part of the Liguria coast also lie the enchanting cities like Cervo, a medieval town dominated by its great Baroque church, and Bordighera, the most exotic town of the Riviera di Ponente. ﻿ The coastline that stretches from Genova towards Tuscany is called Riviera di Levante (Shore of the Rising Sun) and its landscape is rockier with high cliffs hanging over the clear blue waters. Here you have the chance to discover the charm of many colourful fishing villages including the picturesque hamlets of Cinque Terre and small resorts, the likes of Lerici and Portovenere .

Just east of Genova, clinging to the shores of the Monte Portofino Promontory you will find four of the coast's most appealing towns situated within a few kilometres of one another: Camogli , Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, and the famous Portofino ... Liguria Italy Basic Facts Liguria – Italy Travel Guide How to Get Around in the Cinque Terre Liguria: Fast Facts Liguria is the Italian name as well as the English one for this region, and it’s pronounced lee|GOO|ree|yah. The capital of Liguria is Genoa (which is Genova in Italian). Despite its small size, Liguria is only the third smallest region in Italy. In addition to its long coastline on the Ligurian Sea, Liguria shares borders with the Italian regions of Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany, and even shares a small border with France. The popular coastal town of Portovenere, the whole Cinque Terre, the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, and part of Genoa’s historic center are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Among the famous figures in history who hail from Liguria is Christopher Columbus, noted Italian author Italo Calvino, and two popes (Benedict XV and Urban VII). People from Liguria are called liguri (plural). The singular version is ligure. Where to Stay in Liguria Any place that’s popular with tourists typically has a variety of types of accommodation, and Liguria is no different. The kind of places to stay will vary depending on whether you’re visiting Genoa, Portofino, or one of the Cinque Terre towns, but there are beds a-plenty in the region. DOWNLOAD OUR TRAVEL GUIDES DOWNLOAD NOW Portofino and Genoa have more upscale hotel options than the Cinque Terre, where accommodation is primarily B&B-style, small family hotels, or rented rooms/apartments. Genoa is one of a few cities in Liguria where you’ll find bona fide hostels – most towns aren’t big enough to warrant one, and there are 1- and 2-star cheap hotels to cover that market. Many places list themselves as hostels, however, to appeal to budget travelers.

As mentioned, the high season brings tourists to places like Portofino and the Cinque Terre towns by the thousands, and prices on beds skyrockets. These destinations are far less popular – and far less expensive – in the winter, but beach lovers might be depressed to be staring at a beautiful sea through winter weather. Aim for the happy medium in one of Italy’s shoulder seasons. Here are some links to article about hotels and hostels in some of the cities in Liguria: Hotels in Liguria Vacation Rentals in Corniglia What to Do & See in Liguria All it takes is a look at the geography of the region to understand why the sea is the biggest draw for visitors to Liguria. Several of its port cities are stops on Mediterranean cruises, and towns up and down the Ligurian coast are famous for celebrity sightings. It’s not called the Italian Riviera for nothing – this is one of Italy’s playgrounds for the rich and famous. But even if you’re not a sun worshipper, Liguria can still be an excellent vacation spot. There are great stretches of coastline that aren’t really beaches anyway, where the rugged rocky cliffs dive straight into the sea, and where fishing is still a major source of income for some residents.

This hilly region is a great hiking destination (including the famous Cinque Terre hike ), with hikes for all experience levels. There are Roman ruins in Liguria, too, including a 1st century Roman amphitheatre near the town of Luni, and history buffs will also appreciate the importance of the Republic of Genoa when it was a 11th-15th century maritime power – the most powerful republic in the Mediterranean. Where to Go in Liguria Visitors flock to the Italian Riviera towns and the five towns of the Cinque Terre in droves, so even if you don’t know anyone who’s been to Liguria you won’t find these coastal gems to be quiet or remotely “undiscovered.” They are, however, incredibly beautiful – some places are popular for a very good reason. Many people headed for the beaches overlook the Ligurian capital of Genoa, and that’s a shame. It’s a bigger city than you’ll find dotting the coast, but it’s still right on the water and has a fascinating history.

Here are a few of the towns and areas of Liguria you might have on your list: Genoa – Liguria’s capital city, historic maritime power, part of old center on UNESCO World Heritage list Cinque Terre – Famous collection of five coastal towns, incredibly popular for the hike that connects them, UNESCO World Heritage Site; read more in my Cinque Terre guide La Spezia – City just south of the Cinque Terre, Roman amphitheatre in nearby Luni Portofino – Small town on the Italian Riviera, beautiful port, nearby beach Portovenere – Town near La Spezia in southern Liguria, UNESCO World Heritage Site Ventimiglia – City in northern Liguria, home to Balzi Rossi caves where the remains of a Cro-Magnon family were found Sanremo – City on the Italian Riviera, very close to France, host of annual Sanremo Music Festival and Milano-Sanremo bicycle race Genoa in Europe Genoa is the capital of the Italian region of Liguria. Located in the northwest of the country on the Ligurian Sea located in the former center of the Middle Ages, major republic of Genoa is now the administrative seat of the province.

Genoa has 800,000 inhabitants in the agglomeration and 1.5 million in the metropolitan area. The boulevards Le Strade Nuove with the Renaissance – and Baroque buildings of the Palazzi dei Rolli in the center of the town were in 2006 by the UNESCO for World Heritage site declared. genoa In the Bay of Genoa rise the mountains of the Apennines at steeply inland, thereby determining the overall characteristics of the city. Genoa is almost exclusively due to its location facing the sea city. This becomes clear from, for example at a train ride from Milan appear suddenly after several minutes long, pitch-black tunnels, the Mediterranean and the city. In Genoa, the separation between the colonized is extremely dense, often haphazardly built coastal strip and the village-like, affected by increasing emigration, poor hinterland structure that shapes all over Liguria, particularly clear. Today may be greater because of these contrasts the points of contact with the Genoese distant port cities throughout the Mediterranean as a geographical standpoint, only a few kilometers away, according to the tradition and mentality but worlds away Apennine mountain village.

genoa wallpaper genoa landscape genoa italy Geographically, Genoa is exactly the center of the Italian region of Liguria. Which is about 35 km along the Mediterranean coast city rushing towards the southeast in the so-called. Riviera di Levante (to La Spezia), in a southwesterly direction in the so-called. Riviera di Ponente (up Ventimiglia) over. In Genoa, it is common regional location data with the main directions Levant (ie south-east of Genoa) and with Ponente indicate (to the west of Genoa). Genoa in the Italian language was often the addition superba la or la dominant. genoa city Liguria - Discover Italy Discover Italy Ai Weiwei at Palazzo Strozzi Florence hosts one of the giants of contemporary art Video The Mantua of Mischief and Delights Mantua, splendid city in the Region of Lombardy, hosts the rather evocative Palazzo Te, one of the most singularly intriguing palazzos realized... Read more Tropea, Capo Vaticano Tropea, in the Province of Vibo Valentia, is one of the most beautiful places on the Calabrian coast.

This little gem's roots go all the way back to... You are in Home / Discover Italy / Liguria Liguria Vernazza - Photo by Silvia Adalia Riomaggiore Camogli - Panoramic view of the beach | Photo by Luisa Fumi Balestrino Castle What to Do What to taste Liguria is in north-western Italy, bordering with France. The region features impressive mountains and lovely rolling hills, colored by the green Mediterranean turf and overlooking the Ligurian Sea. The two are divided by a high, indented coastline. Liguria is a multi-faceted sliver of the Peninsula, where differences weave together to create a wide array of things to do and see during a visit here. Nature, mountains, culture, entertainment and night life: all one has to do is choose. The waters of this section of the Mediterranean are an enormously important feature of the region, with its characteristic rocky coasts interrupted by small coves, and beaches of fine golden sand.

The Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets, the Gulf of Tigullio, Genoa and Paradise Gulf, the Riviera delle Palme and the Riviera dei Fiori make up the famous coast of Liguria which stretches from Ameglia to Ventimiglia, for more than 300 km (186 mi). During an itinerary so spectacular for the beauty of the land and seascapes, we can see the most famous tourist resorts of Liguria: Portofino , Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo , Sestri Levante with its enchanting Baia del Silenzio (Silent Bay), and Chiavari. One after another, generous beaches, minuscule yet gorgeous ports and amazing sceneries for exploring greet visitors, and turn into vivacious centers by night, with plenty of entertainment and shopping on offer. Some of these include: Sanremo, the city of flowers, famous for the Italian Music Festival and for its Casino; the refined towns of Bordighera and Alassio, with its 3 kilometers (almost 2 mi) of fine sand, along with Laigueglia and Varigotti, some of the gems embedded in the Riviera di Ponente.

Then comes Portovenere - facing Palmaria Island - then Lerici with its grand Medieval castle, elegant villas and lush gardens. The Ligurian Sea also attracts several specimens of sperm whales, rorquals and dolphins, who find their natural habitat and live safely in this area known as the “Sanctuary of Cetaceans.” The extensive woods of Liguria with their centuries-old trees, a true natural legacy, are an excellent alternative to traditional tourism. Immersion into the region's natural environments allows one to get to know and see the places where man, with love and dedication, has managed to cultivate the best possible fruits from thisland. Places full of history, culture and traditions, which witness the passage of ancient peoples coming from the sea. The provinces of the region are: Genoa (the region's capital), Imperia, Savona and La Spezia. Liguria possesses a number of charming attractions, some of them classified as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO for their uniqueness and their historical and natural value. One of these sites is Genoa, a multi-faceted city that combines the ancient with the modern, the past with the present, colors with shadows.

This city belongs to the sea and the sea belongs to it; its culture, places, food and buildings tell the story of the old Maritime Republic. You can still breathe its ancient atmosphere walking among the carruggi, the narrow alleys of the old town of Genoa . Here we can find the Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli , an extraordinary architectural work of the 16th Century built to host politicians and aristocrats. The aristocratic dwellings that would host State visits were chosen by draw from the rolli, or public registers. Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria, with its precious paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck and Bernardo Strozzi; Palazzo Lercari Parodi; Palazzo Campanella and Palazzo Podestà are the beautiful palaces of the Renaissance that you can admire while visiting this unique place. If you visit Genoa, you absolutely must stop at the Aquarium, one of the most complete and technologically-advanced marine life centers in Europe. The Aquarium was designed by famous Italian architect Renzo Piano and even its external look is a wonder to behold.

Inside, the Aquarium houses an entire marine world, in enormous and varied pools behind large windows: dolphins, seals, sharks and colorful fishes of all shapes and sizes create a breath-taking view for both grown-ups and children. Cinque Terre , in addition to Porto Venere and the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto are another UNESCO Site in Liguria. Those who visit these places will hardly forget the charm and atmosphere of the five seaside towns of Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. 18 km (11.2 mi) of coast enclose and guard a little paradise: the rocks just a short drop from a limpid sea and the colors and scents of the earth combine harmoniously with the typical buildings hugging the coast in order to create a unique scenery. Portovenere, an ancient fishing town whose colorful buildings, one next to the other, mix their iridescent colors with the deep blue of the sea, is the start of an archipelago of sorts that ends with the above-mentioned islands.

Anytime one mentions the Italian Riviera, they are talking about Liguria: 186 miles of coast on a splendid sea, the most important feature of this region. The very sea offers a thousand ways to vacation in Liguria, a region that boasts some of the most beautiful marine life reserves in Italy: the Cinque Terre , Portofino , Berteggi, Gallinara and the famous Sanctuary of Cetaceans. This area has the highest concentration of aquatic mammals in the Mediterranean Sea; whale watching enthusiasts can enjoy a fascinating and instructive experience on these “blue sea roads,” obeserving magnificent specimens of marine fauna. Your whale-watching excursion will most likely include a biologist on hand to disclose details and curiosities of cetacean life, including the regulations that aid in preserving their natural habitat. The seabeds and treasures of the Ligurian Sea deserve an underwater 'stroll' for admiring the stunning view. Even those who are not scuba-diving experts can enjoy the enthralling experience of utilizing one of the many specialized diving centers in Liguria's most important sea resorts.

Snorkeling (or seawatching as the Italians call it) is perfect for those who wish to explore but not venture too far from the water's surface, and it is good for all ages. Accompanied by expert guides and with flippers, mask and wetsuit you can still observe from above the colors and variety of the flora as well as the many species of fish that call these waters home. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, Liguria is a real gym in the open air. The mountains, which stand majestically behind the riviera, are the ideal choice for trekking lovers. Rocks, valleys, streams and lakes, with the typical colors and scents of the Mediterranean scrub, make up the stunning natural framework of the Ligurian hinterland. Liguria offers many events, festivals and fairs. Every year many famous Italian singers and new talents take part at the Festival of Italian Music in Sanremo. During the days of this musical event, the Comune of Sanremo puts up several cultural and tourist events to entertain the thousands of people who crowd the Town of Flowers.

Since 1962, Genoa plays host to the International Nautical Fair, a world-wide known event that gathers the most important exhibitors of this sector in about 300 000 square meters. When we speak about Ligurian food, we immediately think of the famous pesto, a tasty sauce made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, pecorino and extra-virgin olive oil, used to flavor trenette (pasta) or ravioli with borage leaves. Liguria is also a region of vineyards and olive groves that produce excellent extra-virgin olive oils and quality wines, like Ormeasco and Rossese from Dolceacqua, Vermentino, Ciliegiolo and Bianchetta from Genoa, Albarola, and Pollera Nera from the Riviera di Levante, and Pigato from Salea d'Albenga. Seafood and fish dishes are obviously renowned: fish soups like ciuppin and buridda with stockfish, as well as stuffed and fried sardines.

Among the meat dishes we can find the cima genovese (cold stuffed veal), veal stuffed with greens and cheese, or stewed hare with famous taggiasche olives, pine nuts and rosemary. The most famous stuffed pie is torta Pasqualina (Easter pie), thin pastry stuffed with greens, cheese and eggs. Finally, we cannot forget fugassa, a soft and thick focaccia covered with onion slices and olive oil, or the thin farinata, a baked savoury pancake made with chickpea flour. The traditional desserts of this region are pandolce genovese, amaretti and cubeli (tiny butter cookies). Liguria Liguria | region, Italy | Britannica.com Liguria Liguria, the third smallest of the regioni of Italy , bordering the Ligurian Sea , in the northwestern part of the country. It comprises the provincie of Genoa , Imperia , La Spezia , and Savona . Portovenere, La Spezia province, Liguria, Italy.

© sds-studio/Shutterstock.com Shaped like a crescent reaching from the mouth of the Roia River to that of the Magra and from the French frontier to Tuscany , Liguria is dominated by the Maritime Alps as far as the Cadibona Pass and by the Ligurian Apennines east of that point. The narrow, picturesquely indented coastal fringe, the Italian Riviera, is customarily divided into a western section, the Ponente Riviera, and an eastern section, the Levante Riviera, the point of division being the apex of the Ligurian arc at Voltri, near Genoa. Most of the population is concentrated within this coastal area. The region, which derived its name from the Ligurians, its pre-Roman inhabitants, came under the domination of Rome in the 1st century bc. After brief Lombard and Frankish rule, the city of Genoa began to emerge as a leading power as early as the 11th century ad. By 1400 the city had gained control of the entire region and become one of the principal maritime and commercial powers of Europe.

Despite numerous conflicts with its competitors, especially Venice, Genoa kept its independence until 1796, when it was seized by Napoleon Bonaparte for France . The Congress of Vienna (1815) gave Liguria to the kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia. Liguria played a leading part in the Risorgimento (movement for Italian independence) and contributed significantly to the union of Italy in 1860. Genoa became the major port of the new unified Italy, rivaling Marseille in France. Because of the shelter from winter winds afforded by the mountains, Liguria is particularly favoured in growing early vegetables, flowers (especially in the western section), olives, and wine grapes, and its mild climate draws an active tourist trade in the numerous coastal resorts. Industries are concentrated in and around Genoa (the regional and provincial capital), around Savona, and along the shores of the Gulf of La Spezia. At Genoa and La Spezia are Italy’s leading shipyards; La Spezia is Italy’s major naval base, and Savona is a major centre of the Italian iron industry. Chemical, textile, and food industries are also important.

Area 2,092 square miles (5,418 square km). Pop. (1991) 1,701,788; (2000 est.) 1,625,870. Learn More in these related articles: in Italy Ligurian Food & Cuisine | Liguria Region of Italy Culture, Cooking and Cuisine by Italian Region POSTED August 26, 2014 The coastal region of Liguria forms a long narrow crescent along the Ligurian Sea towards the northern part of Italy. Four provinces – Imperia, Savona, Genoa and La Spezia – are arranged in a linear fashion along the crescent, each with similar lengths of coastline. A wide swath of mountains protects the area from severe weather, lending to the region’s year-round mild temperatures and plenty of rainfall. Liguria shares its western border with France, and the Italian regions of Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany fan out along the northern and eastern borders, influencing but not overpowering Liguria’s strong local food culture.

The capital port city of Genoa claims Christopher Columbus as one of its most famous natives, and pesto as one of its most famous recipes. Geographically, Liguria holds little meadowlands, with most of its terrain rising from tropical coastline sharply up to mountainous areas. The forested hills grow wild with pine trees, providing the fresh tang of pine nuts for Ligurian dishes. Mushrooms and chestnuts abound in the hills, as do rabbits and other wild game, making the region ideal for producing hearty and rustic country flavors. The warm Mediterranean air helps create good conditions for growing olives (producing exceptionally light flavored oil), wine grapes, corn, herbs (particularly basil), garlic, chickpeas, zucchini (especially the blossoms, which cooks stuff), potatoes, onions and artichokes. Because of its wide coastline, fish and shellfish are the predominant proteins used in Ligurian cooking, though the region shares its love of pork and pork products with both its Italian and French neighbors. Though little wheat is grown in the area, pasta is important to the region’s cuisine. It is said that a form of small lasagna noodle originated there, formed from chestnut flour, which is still popular today.

The innovative Ligurians are skilled making do with locally grown ingredients, like chestnut and chickpea, to product alternate products to use in their pastas, polentas and breads, though wheat is fairly easy to import to the region and therefore the primary ingredient in pastas and breads now. Pesto sauce is popular as a topping for pastas and is widely consumed since basil and pine nuts are so readily available. Fidelini is a local favorite pasta cut, long and thin and the perfect base for light sauces. Trenette is a form of flat, thin pasta similar to linguine, and hearty gnocchi can be found on almost every menu. High on the list of the profusion of Ligurian specialty dishes is the bread known as focaccia. This unleavened flatbread is not meant to be stored for any length of time, but rather is best eaten straight from the oven. Though usually baked plain, the region’s abundance of fragrant herbs are often combined and sprinkled on top.

Cheeses, meats and fresh vegetables are other delightful additions to focaccias, and though there is some tendency in non-Italians to think of heavily adorned focaccias as pizza-like, the differences in taste and texture are very distinct. Focaccias are, again, unleavened and have a dense texture perfect for sopping up rich sauces or simply a great olive oil. You are probably already familiar with many of the tastes of Liguria, as their popularity has spread worldwide, and justifiably so as so many of the dishes are easy to prepare. Even making pesto is an uncomplicated process, quickly prepared in almost any kitchen. Enjoy your homemade pesto over your favorite pasta alongside some herbed olive oil and fresh focaccia for dipping. Hungry for More? Liguria Region Holiday houses, villas, apartment, hotels and more We need your travel dates to give you the best available offers Region Liguria Liguria and its provinces: The Italian region of Liguria is located in the north-west part of the country and consists of four provinces. Liguria offers an accommodation for all holidaymakers.

There is a very good opportunity for them to taste fresh local dishes that are accompanied by a glass of the best Ligurian wine. The western province of Ligurian region is called Imperia with the capital in the city of San Remo. The olive oil which is produced here is in high demand and it is considered to be the best one in Italy. If you are in Imperia then it is really worth visiting "Museo dell` Olivio” here. San Remo has a reputation of a glamorous city which is also reflected in a local Modern-styled casino. Imperia borders with Savona. This province of Liguria is famous for the "Grotte di Toirano", which is situated just behind the Toirano area. The caves of Toirano consist of four grottos with the total length of 1.3 kilometers and are really worth visiting during the trip. The city of Savona has the fifth largest port in Italy and an attractive Old Town. From Savona you can get to the Genoa province via its capital with the same name. In Genoa is located an "Acquario di Genova", which is a modern port area and the largest water zoo in Europe.

The lighthouse of "Lanterna" is the symbol of Genoa and it serves as an orientation for the sailors. The former fishing village of Portofino in this region of Liguria is the most exclusive part of the Riviera which impresses by its elegance and jet sets. The province of La Spezia is mainly famous for the "Cinque Terre". It consists of five villages here and moreover this coastal strip is protected by the UNESCO World Heritage. Everyone is invited here for a long time and to go hiking. The provincial capital city of La Spezia is mainly famous for its closeness to the "Cinque Terre" which has been mentioned above, the shipyard and a city port are also worth mentioning here. Photo: Rainer Lenk Things to See in Liguria | Cinque Terre, Riviera, Photographs, Guidebooks, Transportation - In Italy Online Liguria Photographs, Museums, Cinque Terre, Transportation One of Italy's smallest regions, Liguria stretches west in a narrow ribbon along the coast from France. Mountains separate it from Piedmont to the north, Emilia Romagna to the east and Tuscany to the south.

Even if you've never been there, you've probably seen its northeastern border in all those movies where glamorous jet setters hop into their sports cars and motor from Monte Carlo to Rome: the quaint customs booths any foreign film lover knows well are outside Ventimiglia. Like so much of Italy, Liguria is a land of contrasts, home to belle époque seaside resort towns in the style of Cannes and Monaco; dozens and dozens of sandy strands, rocky coves and pebbly beaches; the country's largest commercial port and largest naval port; some of its most secluded stretches of coast, where lush forests of lemon trees, herbs, flowers, almonds and pines send forth heady sweet-smelling breezes; terraced hillsides that produce an olive oil considered more delicate than those grown in Tuscany. Whether you travel by train or by car, the spectacular journey along the Ligurian coast goes through tunnel after tunnel, always bursting forth from darkness into warm sunlight, the aquamarine sea glimmering at your side. Ezra Pound, Lord Byron, Shelley and his wife Mary Wollstonecraft, Ernest Hemingway all loved this part of Europe, whose capital is Genoa.

The world's schoolchildren know this city as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, but few foreigners consider it one of Italy's must-see art centers. Indeed, it is a typical bustling seaport, similar to Marseilles in many aspects. Yet it is worth a visit, if only for a few hours between trains. Its steep, narrow alleys stretch from the picturesque medieval town center up to the hills crowding directly behind it. You can visit the explorer's home, which happens to be next door to the serene 12th-century cloisters of Sant'Andrea, a welcome respite from the lively atmosphere of a harbor that has sent raucous sailors off to conquer the world for centuries. Via Garibaldi (pictured at right), with its patrician palaces and herringbone brick pavement, is the epitome of European elegance, and the Royal Palace, which houses an excellent collection of European art works, rivals Versailles for its extravagant trappings. Notwithstanding Genoa's attractions, most people come to Liguria for its seashore, which is a virtually uninterrupted string of resorts that have been a mecca for Italian tourists for a hundred years.

The Ligurians have two names for their boomerang-shaped coastline: the half that stretches from France to Genoa is called La Riviera di Ponente, while the half that lies on the Italian peninsula proper is La Riviera di Levante. The latter is where you will find Liguria's rising star attraction, the fascinating Cinqueterre. Regions of Italy Email: Regions of Italy Italy is divided into 20 regions. Each region has an elected parliament, called Consiglio Regionale (literally regional council) and a regional government, called Giunta Regionale (literally executive committee) headed by the regional president, who is elected directly by the citizens living in the region. Indeed the president is very powerful: he can nominate the members of his government and decide over their destitution; if he resigns, new elections are to be immediately called. Every region is divided into provinces and each province is divided into municipalities (comuni). Only Aosta Valley is not divided into provinces. Each region is divided into Provinces. Many customs and cuisines are regional in Italy, a little knowledge of rach region will enhance your Italian experience.

Northern Italy Valle D’ Aosta - lies in the extreme NW corner of Italy, bordered by the southern slopes of Mont Blanc, The Gran Paradiso and the Mt. Rosa ranges. Its landscape is all mountain peaks, glaciers, hills, mountain streams, pastureland, forests and castles. Remains of the Roman Age can be seen along the road from lvrea to the Piccolo San Bernardo, and in Aosta itself. This is the paradise of winter sportsmen: from Courmayeur and Cervinia you can ski in the summer on the glaciers of Mont Blanc. The Gran Paradiso National Park is a source of great attraction. Its cuisine includes polenta, carbonade and chamois, served with Gamey and Chambave raisin wines. Suggested Programs in Valle D’ Aosta Piedmont - Mountains and plains, rivers, cities, farming and industry all live together in harmony in this region. The round hilly area of Monferrato, the rolling terrain of the Langhe, the misty Po river, Lakes Maggiore and Orta. Its mountain resorts along with its wonderful castles, its history, and museums, abbeys and cathedrals, everywhere.

But Turin also has its 18th C. architecture, its bronze equestrian statues, its Mole Antonelliana, Egyptian Museum, and Superga. The bon vivant has game, truffles and fondue, accompanied by Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Gattinara wines. A must is a visit to the Langhe area. Suggested Programs in Piedmont Lombardy - Outstanding for its monumental romantic waterways, rich art galleries and quality cuisine. Of course there is also heavy industry, and business. The whole region is identified with Milan, the capital, one of the world’s leading commercial centers and the home of famed La Scala Opera House. For the tourist there is the countryside, valleys, the Alps, and the “lake district”: Como, with Griante and Cadenabbia, Bellagio, Tremezzo, etc.; lseo; the shores of Lake Maggiore with Luino and Laveno; the shores of Garda with Salo, Desenzano, Sirmione and Gardone; the Italian shores of Lake Lugano.

The Valtellina and Valcamonica mountain resorts need no introduction: Ponte di Legno, Madesimo, Bormio, and Chiesa Valmalenco, etc. In addition to Milan, Pavia, Brescia, Cremona, Bergamo and Mantua are rich in art treasures. Typical dishes are risotto, ossobuco and zuppa pavese. The “panettone” is the local cake; while wines include Barbagallo, Chiaretto and Tocai del Garda. Suggested Programs in Lombardy Trentino Alto Adige - Here the Dolomites reign supreme, and to many people symbolize winter and summer sports. Excellent roads and hotels and sports facilities make this the most popular region for mountain-lovers. In Trento, there is the cathedral, and Buon Consiglio Castle. In Bolzano, the Gothic cathedral. In Merano is a famous spa resort. At Bressanone, Gothic art and Baroque merge in harmony. The summer and winter resorts in Trentino are: Madonna di Campiglio, San Martino di Castrozza, Canazei, Moena, Vigo di Fassa. On Lake Garda, Riva and Torbole.

In Alto Adige the best known resorts are Vipiteno, Brunico, Ortisei, Selva Gardena, Carezza, San Candido, and Alpe di Siusi. Local dishes include Trent-style hare, roast alpine lake fish, and strudel, to be eaten with Merlot, Pinot Bianco, Bianco Val d’Adige or moscato wine. Suggested Programs in Trentino - Alto Adige Friuli Venezia Giulia - Art, landscapes and ancient traditions are the jealously guarded treasures of this region between the Venetian plain, the Alps and the sea. Just think of Udine, Piazza Contarena, with its works by Tiepolo and Giorgione, and the Renaissance splendors grafted onto the Lombard city; Trieste, with the all-pervading presence of Rome in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of St. Giusto, the Romanesque churches and the castles on the coast; and Gorizia, with the Lion of St. Mark on the castle set amid grape-vines and cypresses. Rome is the true mother of this region.

Cividale, Tarvisio, Monfalcone and the two jewels of Grado and Aquileia, the glorious city of ancient Rome, and the See of the patriarchate of Byzantium for 13 centuries still preserve her remains. Eat their brodetto, luganighe, and San Daniele prosciutto, with a glass of Pinot, Tocai or Riesling. Suggested Programs in Friuli Venezia Giulia Veneto - A welcoming land of a great civilization. Veneto means Venice, above all, the most imaginative city in the world with its Lion of Saint Mark, the Doges, Marco Polo, gondolas, cut glass, Grand Canal, Goldoni, 400 bridges and 118 islands.

But it also means much more: for example, the 20 km long open-air museum of the Brenta Canal, lined with Palladio’s splendid villas, the spa resort of Abano and Montegrotto, and the whole of the magnificent northern Venetian border with the ‘queen’ of the Dolomites, Cortina, and the Asiago plateau, and the Cadore Valley; the beaches of Caorle and Jesolo; Verona and Padua with the Arena and the Basilica of St. Anthony. Rice and peas, fish, Venetian-style liver, Vicenza-style dried cod can be enjoyed with the Valpolicella, Soave and Bianco di Conegliano wines. Suggested Programs in Veneto Liguria - Imagine an endless balcony with a seaview from the front, and a compact wall of mountains behind. It is the mildest region in northern Italy; its two rivieras have an exceptional climate all year round. Liguria is the largest producer of flowers although its economic resources come from the sea, and depend on the sea. Genoa, La Spezia, Savona are leading shipyards.

Then there is the steel industry at Cornigliano, and the food industry at lmperia. Handicrafts include ivory and filigree work, lace, damasks and velvet. “Pesto” is the Ligurian sauce par excellence. Famous wines from the Cinque Terre need no introduction. Suggested Programs in Liguria Emilia Romagna - The region runs from the Apennines to the Adriatic and nearly every town and village has a medieval cathedral, castle and a couple of towers reaching up to the sky. Cathedrals rich in masterpieces, and castles frescoed by the greatest masters. The Farnese family in Piacenza and Parma, the Este family in Reggio Emilia, Modena and Ferrara, the Malatesta family in Rimini, the Bentivoglios in Bologna have left behind priceless works of art. Ravenna, the last capital of the Western Roman Empire, is resplendent in her Byzantine monument, embellished with mosaics. Bologna has Italy’s oldest university, the Basilica of St. Petronio and the famous Asinelli and Garisenda towers.

Reggio Emilia, Piacenza, Modena, Ferrara, Parma are rich in art treasures. For handicrafts, there are the handmade leather goods, furniture, ceramics, alabaster, marble and wrought iron. The cuisine is famous for its meat dishes, sausages, Comacchio eels, tortellini and lasagna. Wines: Lambrusco, Sangiovese, Albana, Bianco di Scandiano. Suggested Programs in Emilia Romagna Central Italy Tuscany - The magical evocative landscape of Tuscany, dotted with flickering vines and the darker green of cypresses embodies the classic Italian ideal and is, for many people the very essence of Italy. Old, isolated towns sometimes just little groups of stone houses, fortified Romanesque churches, Renaissance “castelli” and palaces all confront each other in the splendid isolation of the hilltops. A perfect land, and certainly the most privileged. Every town and city has splendid monuments of art, but Florence stands head and shoulders above all. At its center is Florence; to the West is a chain of cities, Prato, Pistoia, Lucca, Pisa.

To the East are the ancient Etruscan cities of Cortona and Arezzo. To the South lies Siena, rich in art works. Tuscany is nearly the quintessence of Renaissance, with Florence its shining capital. These are the great cities of the Italian Renaissance, centers of art, architecture, culture, finance, and banking and yet Tuscany remains essentially rural in character, especially when it comes to gastronomy. Inhabitants display a quiet pride and transformed the produce of the land by them into products of world-class quality. Italy’s finest extra-virgin olive oil comes from Tuscany, as well as a wave of wines. The visitor has the whole of Italian art at his fingertips from the 13th to the 16th centuries in Florence, Siena, Pistoia, Lucca and Pisa. Artists include Cimabue, Giotto, Piero della Francesca, Simone Martini, Leonardo, Michelangelo. Literature boasts Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio. Seaside resorts include Viareggio, Punta Ala, the Argentario with Porto Santo Stefano, the Isle of Elba, the Isle of Giglio, and Giannutri.

The most important spas are at Montecatini and Chianciano. The festivals are the Palio in Siena , the Jousting Tournament (Giostra del Saracino) at Arezzo and the Gioco del Ponte in Pisa. For handicrafts: ceramics, wrought iron, leather goods, and raffia work. The typical dishes include the T-bone steak (alla Fiorentina), while Chianti And Brunello da Montalcino wines are known the world over. Suggested Programs in Toscana Umbria - The gentle green land of the Saints: this is the native country of Saint Francis and Saint Clare (Assisi), Saint Benedict (Norcia), Saint Rita (Cascia), The mystical land that inspired Jacopone da Todi, Perugino, Pinturicchio. At Perugia see the Palazzo dei Priori, Fontana Maggiore, the University for Foreigners. In the province, visit Gubbio, Spoleto (famed for the Festival of Two Worlds), Foligno, Todi, Citta di Castello, the Springs of Clitumnus, and the sacred towns of Assisi, Norcia and Cascia.

In Terni province, visit Orvieto, perhaps the most beautiful cathedral of Italy, and the Marmore Falls, Natural mineral waters at Sangemini. Handicrafts include Deruta pottery and ceramics, embroidery and wrought iron. In recent years the Jazz Festival in Perugia is among the best known in Europe. The Umbrian school of art occupies a prominent place in the history of Italian art. Norcia’s black truffles and Perugia’s confectionery are a delight to the palate, while the classic wine of the region is Orvieto. Suggested Programs in Umbria Marche - A miracle of harmony, built up slowly across the ages. An unknown region, that may be defined as summing up all the beauties of Italy. Ancona, the capital, is the great Adriatic commercial port, where you can visit the Basilica of St. Ciriaco, Palazzo degii Anziani, and Trajan’s Triumphal Arch. In Pesaro, where Rossini was born, are the Oliveriani Museums, and the Rocca Costanza.

Urbino, with the Ducal Palace, the Collegio degii Scolopi, and the University, is Raphael’s birthplace. Ascoli Piceno has Roman and medieval remains. In Macerate there is the ancient university, and the Sferisterio, where the Summer Opera Festival is held. Other major towns are Fermo, Tolentino, Recanati and Loreto famous for the Shrine of the Holy House. Typical dishes include fish soup, roast pig (porchetta), tournedos alla Rossini, and Fabriano salami. Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, and Piceno red, are its best known wines. Suggested Programs in Marche Abruzzo - Harsh mountains and long coastlines offer an ideal holiday for every kind of tourist. There are many resorts which are becoming increasingly popular. Montesilvano, Silvi, Roseto, Pineto, Giulianova, Alba, Tortoreto, Pescara, Francavilla, Ortona, Vasto. The most important towns are L’Aquila with its fountain with 99 spouts, its beautiful churches.

From the Gran Sasso, 2914 metres a.s.l., with Campo Imperatore you can enjoy a unique view. Scanno, with its beautiful costumes, Lake and craft work; Sulmona, the birthplace of Ovid and the leading producer of sugared almonds; Chieti, between the sea and the Majella; Pescasseroli, in the heart of the National Park with so much precious wildlife; Pescara, the most modern town of all, the birthplace of D’Annunzio; Teramo, with its 13th century Cathedral and Roman Theatre. A region rich in folklore, with so many traditions and the remnants of ancient rites. Local dishes include maccheroni alla chitarra, sgrippelle, and lamb, to be eaten with the typical Cerasuolo and Trebbiano wines. Suggested Programs in Abruzzo e Molise Molise - Molise’s past history is largely linked to the history of the Samnites. The most popular areas for the visitor are the seaside resorts along the Adriatic, Termoli and Campomarino, and the mountainous zone of Piano Campitello and Capracotta.

The modern town of Campobasso lies in the plain, while the ancient part is up on a hill dominated by Monforte Castle. The craftsmen of this region all work metal, wood, clay and lace with consummate skill. The city of lsernia has the 15th c. 6-arched Fontana Fraterna, and an antiquarium museum, with Greek, Samnite and Roman remains on show. In Termoli, visit the Swabian Castle built in 1247 by Frederick 11, and the 13th century Cathedral. Typical dishes are maccheroni alla chitarra, polenta and cavatelli, to be eaten with Montepulciano wine. Suggested Programs in Abruzzo e Molise Lazio - Lazio is like an oyster shell with a pearl inside. The region contains Rome, but is not identified with the capital from which it often differs considerably for historical and natural reasons. The capital has remains that bear witness to millennia of history, and yet everywhere in Lazio there is something to recall. Viterbo, Tarquinia, Tuscania and Cerveteri speak of the Etruscan civilization.

And art is everywhere, too: the treasures in Montecassino Abbey, the Villas of Tivoli, and Ostia Antica. But particularly in Rome, universally known for its monuments of every age: from the Roman Forum to its Renaissance and Baroque palaces, is museums and piazzas, its obelisks and fountains. There is much to see in the environs of the city: the Alban Hills, known as the “Castelli Romani”, and the Lakes of Bolsena, Vico, Bracciano and Albano; seaside resorts include Anzio and the Pontine Isles. Typical dishes include lamb, artichokes and spaghetti alla carbonara. Apart from the famous “Castelli” wines, there is also Montefiascone’s Est! Est! Est! Suggested Programs in Lazio Southern Italy & the Islands Campania - Settled by the Greeks, Romans, Normans, Swabians, Angevins, Aragonese and the Bourbons - all of whom have left something behind in this region.

In Naples the Royal Palace of Capodimonte and Castel dell’Ovo, at Benevento the Arch of Trajan, at Caserta the 18th century Royal Palace built by Vanvitelli, at Avellino the Shrine of Montevergine and at Salerno the Cathedral. At Paestum, get a glimpse of Greek civilization; at Herculaneum and Pompeii, come into contact with the Romans. At Capo Palinuro recall the poetry of Homer and Virgil, for this is where Ulysses landed. Campania is a region for holidaymakers: the Bay of Naples, Ischia, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, with Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, and spa resorts: Ischia, Agnano, Castellammare di Stabia. Typical dishes include maccheroni, clam and mussel soup, pizza and sfogliatelle pastry. Wines: Falerno, Epomeo, Gragnano and Lacrima Christi. Suggested Programs in Campania Basilicata - Its archaic face and voice are hidden behind the mountains and under the stones of civilizations long since disappeared.

But if you listen carefully, you will discover the myths and the echoes of her history. Potenza dominates the Basento Valley. In Potenza is the Museo Provinciale Lucano, with prehistoric ornaments and other archaeological finds from the region. , Matera is hewn out of the rock with its picturesque “sassi” dwellings. In Matera, the Museum contains many prehistoric exhibits unearthed in Southern Italy. Metaponto is the most interesting archaeological zone of Magna Graecia, Melfi is worth a visit; Miglionico for its Shrine and Castle; Venosa, Horace’s birthplace, for its Cathedral. The cuisine is based on vegetables; the Garagusa sausages are excellent. Wines include Aglianico, and Moscato del Vulture. Suggested Programs in Basilicata Puglia - The region overlooks the southernmost part of the Adriatic Sea, with the Gulf of Taranto, the Salentina peninsula and the Ionian Sea. It flourished under the ancient Greeks, and was dominated by Normans, Swabians and Arabs.

Provincial towns include Barletta, Trani and Alberobello, with its picturesque “Trulli”, Brindisi has the Roman column and the Church of S. Maria del Casale, and in the province there is Ostuni, the ruins of Egnazia and Selva di Fasano. Near Foggia is the Gargano, the Umbra Forest with Mont Sant’Angelo, and the Shrine of S. Michele; then Lucera, and the towns of Siponto, Vieste, and Manfredonia, not forgetting the Tremiti Isles. Lecce, with its Baroque monuments; Otranto, Gallipoli, Marina di Leuca have fine beaches, while Taranto’s Museo Nazionale should not be missed. Typical dishes: “recchietelli”, fish soup, and fusilli, to be enjoyed with Aleatico, Moscato di Trani, delle Murge or del Salento wines.

Suggested Programs in Puglia (Apulia) Calabria - See the Tyrrhenian with your right eye and the Ionian with your left: a great deal of Greece, a great deal of Rome, a great deal of Byzantium. Calabria had periods of great splendor as a part of Magna Graecia, as one can see from the ruins of the settlements at Locri, Sibari, Eraclea, Crotone. In Rossano Cathedral is the Codice Purpureo, a 6th century Greek manuscript. Citrus fruit is the region’s leading crop, and forms the basis of many industrial enterprises. Sila, with Camigliatello Silano, Villaggio Mancuso and the artificial lakes Arvo, Ampollino and Cecita, has become an important center for holidaymakers. See the beaches at Locri, Praia a Mare, Paola, Crotone, Briatico, Tropea, Palmi, Bagnara and the Lido of Reggio Calabria. In Reggio itself, the Museo Nazionale contains the famous “Riace Warriors” that have attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Craftwork includes lace, embroidery, damasks, terracotta and wrought iron. The special dishes are aubergines cooked in thousands of different ways, and “peseta incasata”, while the best known wines are Ciro, Greco and Savuto. Suggested Programs in Calabria Sicilia - The civilization of Magna Graecia can be found everywhere in the island - Agrigento, Gela, Tindari, Erice, Taormina, Syracuse. Two unique jewels: the Temples of Segesta and Selinunte. Roman remains include the mosaics at Piazza Armerina. The mighty power of the Swabians can be seen in the Castles at Catania, Syracuse and Augusta. Baroque is represented, Modica, at Ragusa and Noto. In Palermo visit the Cathedral, the Palatine Chapel, Monreale Cathedral. The temperate climate explains why this region has become such a popular area for holidaymakers. The established resorts are Mondello, Cefalu, the Riviera dei Ciclopi, Mazzaro, the Aeolian islands, the Egadi islands, Pantelleria and Ustica.

Spas include Termini Imerese, Sciacca, Acireale. The most famous traditional festival is the Flowering Almond Fair at Agrigento. Typical dishes: pasta con le sarde, caponata, cuscusu, and swordfish. Confectionery abounds here: candied fruits, marzipan, cassata siciliana. Wines: Marsala, Malvasia di Lipari, and Moscato di Pantelleria. Suggested Programs in Sicilia Sardegna - The miracle of thousands of years and the influence of many civilizations from the bronze age onwards have created the fascination of this island. It is Italy’s second largest island, and has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as one can see from the timeless nuraghi cone-shaped fortifications/dwellings. In Cagliari, visit the Cathedral, the Church of San Saturnino, the towers of San Pancrazio and Elefante; don’t miss Tharros, Oristano and Barumini (nuraghi). In Nuoro province: Oliena, Dorgali, Serra Orios (nuraghi). At Sassari, visit the Cathedral, and the Ducal Palace.

In the province: Porto Torres, Tempio Pausania, Castelsardo, Ozieri. Handicraft includes wrought gold (filigree), carpets, and decorated leather goods. Traditional festivals: the Sagra di Sant’ Efisio, the Festa del Redentore, and the Cavalcata Sarda. Typical dishes include: “porcheddu” (roast suckling pig), and lobster. Wines: Vernaccia, Malvasia, Nuragus and Canonau.

Question: What is the capital of the Italian region of Liguria?
Answer: GENOA